Delayed postoperative dural arteriovenous malformations. Report of two cases

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Vascular Neurology

Background:

• Dural arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal connections between dura mater arteries and veins.
• Postoperative AVMs are rare, with limited reported cases, especially delayed presentations.

Observation:

• Two unique cases of dural AVMs developed at prior suboccipital craniectomy sites.
• These delayed postoperative AVMs showed similarities to traumatic dural AVMs.

Findings:

• The study highlights the potential for dural AVMs to arise years after cranial surgery.
• No prior reports exist for delayed postoperative dural AVMs.

Implications:

• Understanding the link between surgery and AVM formation is crucial for neurosurgeons.
• Embolization is a recommended treatment for selected cases with external carotid artery supply.
• Further research into the pathogenesis of postoperative dural AVMs is warranted.